A clogged and dirty shower head may look tough to clean, but you’ll be surprised that you can use many household and common items to clean your shower head. The most common shower head cleaner is vinegar or a commercial cleaner. But you may not have them on hand. At such a time, your go-to lubricant to keep things running, WD-40, can come in handy.
Let’s learn how to use WD-40 to Clean a Shower Head
Guide to Clean Shower Head Using WD-40
Safety First
Before you begin, ensure a safe environment. Work in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves to protect your hands. Since WD-40 is a chemical, it’s important to avoid contact with skin and eyes. Also, protect your bathroom surfaces from damage or discoloration caused by WD-40.
Remove the Shower Head
Start by detaching the shower head from the shower arm. This might require gently unscrewing it; use adjustable pliers with a cloth wrapped around the shower head to prevent scratches if it’s too tight. Removing it allows for a more thorough cleaning.
Apply WD-40
With the shower head removed, spray a generous amount of WD-40 onto it, focusing on areas with visible mineral deposits or grime. Allow the WD-40 to soak in for several minutes. This soaking time helps break down and loosen the deposits.
Scrubbing
After soaking, gently scrub the shower head with a non-abrasive brush or sponge. Pay special attention to the holes and any areas with significant buildup. This step is crucial for removing the loosened deposits and dirt.
Rinse Thoroughly
Once you’ve scrubbed the shower head, rinse it thoroughly under warm water. Make sure to remove all traces of WD-40, as any residue can affect water flow and quality. Ensure the water runs clear and the shower head is completely clean.
Reattach the Shower Head
Dry the shower head and screw it back onto the shower arm. Be cautious not to over-tighten it to avoid damaging the threads. Once reattached, turn on the water to check for any leaks and ensure it functions correctly.
Final Check and Regular Maintenance
Do a final check to ensure everything is in order and the shower head is working as expected. Clean your shower head periodically with traditional cleaning methods for regular maintenance, and use WD-40 only when necessary for tough mineral deposits. This will keep your shower head in good condition and extend its lifespan.
Alternative Methods to Clean Shower Heads
Vinegar Soak
A popular and eco-friendly method involves soaking the shower head in white vinegar. Vinegar is a natural descaling agent that effectively breaks down mineral deposits. Remove the shower head and submerge it in vinegar for a few hours or overnight for tougher buildup. Rinse thoroughly afterward to remove the vinegar smell and residue.
Baking Soda Scrub
A paste of baking soda and water is an effective scrub for cleaning shower heads. This mild abrasive can gently scrub away grime and mineral deposits without damaging the finish. Apply the paste, scrub gently with a toothbrush or soft sponge, and rinse well. It’s particularly good for surface cleaning.
Lemon Juice Bath
Lemon juice acts similarly to vinegar, thanks to its acidic nature. Soaking the shower head in lemon juice can help dissolve mineral buildup. It’s a great option for those sensitive to the smell of vinegar. Plus, it leaves a fresh, citrusy scent. Soak for a few hours, then rinse and dry.
Commercial Descaling Solutions
There are various commercial descaling solutions available specifically for cleaning bathroom fixtures. These are formulated to tackle hard water deposits and limescale. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for soaking or applying the solution, then rinse thoroughly. These are powerful but should be used with caution on different finishes.
Denture Tablet Soak
An unconventional but effective method is using denture cleaning tablets. Fill a bag or container with water, drop a couple of denture tablets in, and submerge the shower head. The effervescent action of the tablets helps to break down deposits. After soaking for a few hours, rinse the shower head well. This method is gentle and safe for most finishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use WD-40 to clean the shower head without removing it?
You can use WD-40 to clean a shower head without removing it. Spray the WD-40 directly onto the shower head, especially targeting the nozzles and areas with visible buildup. This method is less thorough than removing and soaking the shower head but can still be effective for minor cleaning.
How long should I let WD-40 sit on the shower head?
It’s recommended to let WD-40 sit on the shower head for about 15 to 20 minutes. This duration allows the WD-40 enough time to penetrate and break down the mineral deposits and grime. After this, you should scrub and rinse the shower head thoroughly.
Does WD-40 remove mineral deposits from hard water?
No, WD-40 is not the best choice for removing mineral deposits from hard water. For this purpose, using vinegar is more effective. Vinegar is a natural descaling agent that dissolves hard water deposits. Soaking the shower head in vinegar for a few hours is a recommended method.
Does WD-40 kill bacteria on shower heads?
Yes, WD-40 can help in killing bacteria on shower heads. While it’s primarily a lubricant and rust dissolver, its chemical composition can be effective in reducing bacterial buildup. However, it’s not a substitute for regular cleaning and disinfection methods designed specifically for bacteria removal.
